ST. LOUIS - Ice skating is coming to the Arch grounds this winter, as St. Louis works to put its best foot forward as it hosts the NHL Winter Classic.

The ice rink in Luther Ely Smith Square will be open from December 27 through January 8 as part of CityArchRiver's Winterfest.

“This is an amazing partnership with the Blues to make the Arch grounds buzz this winter,” said Eric Moraczewski, executive director of CityArchRiver Foundation.

The 46-foot by 92-foot rink will be made of synthetic ice that replicates the feeling of skating on real ice. Visitors will be able to bring their own skates or rent skates on site.

In addition to ice skating, Winterfest will feature an opening night celebration, a street hockey tournament, whiskey tasting and a New Year's Eve celebration. More events will be announced in the coming weeks.

The Blues will host the Blackhawks on January 2 at Busch Stadium for the Winter Classic game.